In the Western Pacific, lies Philippines which comprises of more than 7000 islands. However, the bulk of its fast-growing population lives on just 11 of them. This Southeast Asian country is famous for its waterfront promenade and centuries-old Chinatown, Binondo.

English is a widely spoken language among the country's hundred million population. Rent is cheaper. Public transportation is convenient and organised. Taking the local 'Jeepney' will keep your cost of living in the Philippines down.

Crime is an issue especially in the south so you need to be aware of the security measures. Alcohol is cheap. Whereas food is expensive.

Food at international chains costs less than the local food.

Technology seems to be pricey in the Philippines as compared to other Southeast Asian countries. Everything from phone plans to Wi-Fi plans is expensive.

The job market at the Philippines is not great. This may be the reason why the medical doctors go to the US or Europe to find work. Some of them are designated as nurses in the foreign land, still, earn more than the doctors working in the Philippines.

Politics in Philippines

Elections are held every three years. These elections are held on every second Monday of May. The elected Prime Minister takes over the office on the following June 30.

In Philippines, success in politics is enjoyed by movie star and other celebrities.

Economy of Philippines

According to the 2017 estimate of the International Monetary Fund's statistics, the economy of Philippines is the world's 34th largest economy by nominal GDP.

It is the 13th largest economy in Asia and the 3rd largest economy in the ASEAN after Indonesia and Thailand.

The economy of Philippines is transforming into a newly industrializes country. The country has transitioned from one based on agriculture to one based more on services and manufacturing.

Elementary school is divided into first six years of compulsory education from grade 1 to 6. Within those 6 years, the system is further classified into 3 years of primary level and 3 years of intermediate level. The secondary education has 4 levels which are largely based on the American schooling system.

Are there any IB schools available in the Philippines?

Metro Manila is the home for most of the expats moving to the Philippines. Makati city of Manila attracts expats because it accommodates many international corporations and is the heart of the Philippines diplomatic community.

Traffic is notorious in Manila so consider proximity to your place of work and your child's school before you settle in.

Home security is the factor to be considered in the Philippines because crime rates are high in the country. Homes are vulnerable to Bulgary if they are vacant for a longer period of time.

If you are looking for rental accommodation than be ready to pay a full year's rent in advance along with a deposit equivalent to two or three month's rent. Short term leases are not easily available.

If you are looking for shorter-term accommodation than go for the serviced apartments which are available in larger cities.

Your rent is not inclusive of utility bills, so consider those additional expenses before finalising any deal.

Being a foreigner you can purchase a house or condo in the Philippines but you cannot own the land on which it stands.

Weather in the Philippines

The Philippines has two seasons, the wet and dry season. This gem in the Pacific is known for its thousand islands, so people go there to have a summery feel.

Its dry seasons starts from November and ends in May. The rainy season is from June and lasts until October. September and October are often typhoon season in the Philippines.

The best time to go to the beach or trek highlands is April and May. Its summer temperature reaches 38-degree Celsius and drops until 9-degree Celsius From November to February.

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Once every month we shall interest you with the finest articles in moving practices for homes, offices, art, commercial relocations, and hospitality logistics. Delivered straight to your inbox for your reading delight and knowledge.